Topaz (bookmaker)
| Public | |
| Industry | Gambling |
| Founded | 8 January 2011 |
| Headquarters | Baku, Azerbaijan |
| Products | Bookmaking, betting shops, online gambling |
| €200 million (2013)[1] | |
Number of employees | 1,000 (2014)[2] |
| Website | http://www.topaz.az |
Topaz plc is the largest bookmaker in Azerbaijan.[2] In 2014, it was listed as one of most recognised brands in the country.[2]
History
The company was founded on 8 January 2011 after country loosened its 13-year ban on gambling.[2][3][4]
In 2014, company opened its 500th betting office.[1]
Operations
The company operates worldwide, employing approximately 1,000 people with main offices in Azerbaijan,[2] offering betting by phone and Internet together with their 500 Azerbaijan-wide Licensed Betting Offices.[1]
Sponsorship
As of 2012, Topaz are the official betting partner of Azerbaijan Premier League and operate betting booths for all England and Football Association matches.[5][6]
Criticism
In March 2013, the company faced heavy pressure from National Assembly of Azerbaijan due its negative effect on youth but company was supported by Azad Rahimov, the Minister of Youth and Sports of Azerbaijan Republic.[2] Rahimov claimed, all Topaz’ operations are fully transparent, and the company is supporting the sport industry.[2][7]
References
- 1 2 3 ""Topaz"ın 2 illik dövriyyəsi: 118 milyon avro". news.lent.az (in Azerbaijani). Retrieved 9 August 2014.
- 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 "Current Sports Betting Situation in Azerbaijan". gamingzion.com. Retrieved 9 August 2014.
- ↑ "THE SPORTS BETTING GAME HAS OFFICIALLY STARTED IN AZERBAIJAN". www.intralot.com. Retrieved 9 August 2014.
- ↑ Deasy, Kristin. "Gambling Gets A Run For Its Money In Azerbaijan". www.rferl.org. Retrieved 9 August 2014.
- ↑ ""Topaz" Premyer Liqanın yeni sponsoru oldu". Sportal.az (in Azerbaijani). Retrieved 26 August 2012.
- ↑ "Topaz и ПФЛ подписались на три совместных сезона". Azerisport.az. 19 September 2012. Retrieved 19 September 2012.
- ↑ Aliyeva, Sabina. Некоторые депутаты Милли Меджлиса выступают за то, чтобы все спортивные тотализаторы в стране были закрыты. www.zerkalo.az (in Russian). Retrieved 9 August 2014.